taper

[ˈteɪpər]

taper Definition

  • 1to become gradually narrower towards one end
  • 2a long, thin candle

Using taper: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "taper" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The road tapered to a narrow path.

  • Example

    She tapered the dress at the waist.

  • Example

    He lit a taper to guide his way through the dark.

  • Example

    The church was illuminated by tapers.

taper Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for taper

Antonyms for taper

Phrases with taper

  • to gradually decrease in amount or intensity

    Example

    The rain began to taper off as we approached the city.

  • to gradually reduce in size, amount, or intensity

    Example

    She is tapering down her medication under doctor's supervision.

  • a men's hairstyle that gradually becomes shorter towards the neck

    Example

    He got a taper haircut for the summer.

Origins of taper

from Old English 'tapur'

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Summary: taper in Brief

The verb 'taper' [ˈteɪpər] means to gradually become narrower towards one end, as in 'The road tapered to a narrow path,' or to make something narrower, as in 'She tapered the dress at the waist.' As a noun, 'taper' refers to a long, thin candle, as in 'The church was illuminated by tapers.' The phrase 'taper off' means to gradually decrease in amount or intensity, while 'taper down' means to gradually reduce in size, amount, or intensity.

How do native speakers use this expression?